Merepärl
Merepärl is the Estonian word for a pearl found in the sea. While pearls are most commonly associated with oysters, they can also be formed by other marine mollusks. The formation process begins when an irritant, such as a parasite or a piece of debris, enters the mollusk's shell. In response to this foreign object, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, around the irritant. Over time, these layers build up, creating a smooth, lustrous sphere.
The color of a merepärl can vary widely depending on the species of mollusk, its diet, and
Historically, pearls have been highly valued for their beauty and rarity, often adorning jewelry worn by royalty